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Stripe integrated the x402 protocol to enable USDC payments by AI agents on Base
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Developers can programmatically charge autonomous agents using Stripe’s PaymentIntents API
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CoinGecko simultaneously launched x402-powered pay-per-use API endpoints
Machine Payments Go Live
Stripe introduced a preview of machine payments by integrating the x402 protocol, allowing developers to bill AI agents directly in USDC on Base.
The system allows agents to make onchain payments tied to API calls or other services through Stripe’s existing infrastructure.
How x402 Works
The x402 protocol, developed by Coinbase, reuses the HTTP 402 “Payment Required” status code to enable direct onchain payment within web requests.
Stripe generates a deposit address through its PaymentIntents API, allowing agents to send USDC and complete transactions programmatically. Sales tax, refunds, and reporting are handled through Stripe’s standard tools.
CoinGecko Enables Pay-Per-Request Data
CoinGecko also activated x402 for its API, enabling agents to pay $0.01 in USDC per request for price and onchain data. This removes the need for API keys and allows autonomous systems to fetch data directly.
The rollout comes as Bloomberg reported Stripe is arranging a tender offer that could value the company at $140 billion.
